The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Funeral Rule requires all funeral providers to give information to consumers to help them choose the services and products they want for their deceased relative or friend. Funeral providers must give you a general price of products and services when you ask in person about funeral arrangements and you have the right to keep this list. Furthermore, funeral providers must make price information available over the phone upon request. The funeral provider must give you any other information that is reasonably needed to select the funeral provider and funeral items you want, need, and are able to afford.
If the funeral provider charges a fee for buying "cash advance items," this must be disclosed to you in writing. Cash advance items are those goods and services paid for by the funeral provider on your behalf, such as cemetery plots, flowers, obituary notices, and clergy honoraria. You must also be notified if a service fee is added to the price of cash advance items, and if the funeral provider gets a refund, discount or rebate from the supplier of any cash advance item.
Nebraska Prearranged Funeral Contract with Statutory Disclosures is a legal agreement between an individual and a funeral home in Nebraska, outlining the specific arrangements and services for their funeral or burial. This contract is regulated by specific statutes to protect both the consumer and the funeral home. In Nebraska, there are two main types of prearranged funeral contracts with statutory disclosures: Revocable and Irrevocable. These contracts differ in terms of their flexibility and the manner in which payments are treated. The Revocable Prearranged Funeral Contract allows the purchaser to make changes, modifications, or even cancel the contract at any time without any financial penalty. This type of contract is beneficial for individuals who anticipate potential changes in their funeral preferences or financial situations. On the other hand, the Irrevocable Prearranged Funeral Contract is binding and cannot be altered or canceled unless certain conditions are met. Once signed, this contract guarantees that the funeral services and expenses specified in the agreement will be fulfilled, regardless of any future changes in preferences or pricing. Both types of Nebraska Prearranged Funeral Contracts must comply with the statutory disclosures mandated by the state. These disclosures provide explicit information to consumers, ensuring transparency and fairness in the agreement. Key components covered in the statutory disclosures include: 1. Itemized List of Services and Merchandise: The contract must outline all funeral services, merchandise, and related costs, enabling consumers to have a clear understanding of what is included in their prearranged funeral plan. 2. Price Guarantee: The contract should disclose whether the prices are guaranteed or subject to potential increases. If there is a price escalation mechanism, it must be clearly explained. 3. Transferability and Portability: If the purchaser moves or wishes to transfer the contract to another funeral home, the terms and conditions related to transferability or portability should be disclosed. 4. Payment Options: The contract should outline the available payment options, such as lump sum payment, installments, or trust fund mechanisms. It should also specify any applicable finance or interest charges. 5. Cancellation and Refund Policy: For revocable contracts, the terms and conditions of cancellation, refunds, or transfer of funds to another service provider should be clearly stated. 6. Funeral Home's Responsibility: The contract should stipulate the funeral home's obligations and responsibilities in honoring the terms of the agreement, including any potential contingencies or alternate options. Nebraska Prearranged Funeral Contracts with Statutory Disclosures offer a secure means for individuals to plan their funeral arrangements in advance, ensuring their wishes are met and sparing their loved ones from the burden of making challenging decisions during a difficult time. By understanding the different types of contracts and the statutory disclosures involved, individuals can make informed decisions when entering into an agreement with a funeral home in Nebraska.
